preform
Americanverb (used with object)
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to form beforehand.
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to determine or decide beforehand.
to preform an opinion.
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to shape or fashion beforehand.
to preform a mold.
noun
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any of various uncompleted objects of manufacture after preliminary shaping.
Usage
What does preform mean? As a verb, preform means to make or form something before something else happens, or during a preliminary stage. As a noun, a preform is an object in its initial form, before it is completed with additional work. When used as a verb, preform can refer to forming an abstract thing, such as an idea or opinion, or a tangible thing, such as a sculpture, piece of clothing, or other manufactured item. When used as a noun, preform typically refers to a physical object (like that sculpture or piece of clothing) that is intended to be finished with additional crafting. It is sometimes hyphenated as pre-form. Example: Don’t preform an opinion about Grace before you even meet her.
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of preform
From the Latin word praefōrmāre, dating back to 1595–1605. See pre-, form
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Among those set to preform are Sting, P!nk,
From BBC • Jan. 30, 2025
The autopsies are part of a new initiative through Kaepernick's Know Your Rights Camp and will collaborate with pathologists who are board certified and preform autopsies, according to KTVU.
From Fox News • Feb. 23, 2022
Carter said, adding that it is clear that at least one of the firms selected could not preform.
From Washington Post • May 6, 2020
A source told the Washington Times that noted foot specialist Dr. Robert Anderson will preform the surgery.
From Washington Times • Jan. 10, 2018
She has tested the wanderer, Alcinous can now preform the ceremonies.
From Homer's Odyssey A Commentary by Snider, Denton Jaques
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
